Physical stand for multiple device orientations and peripheral card reader

ABSTRACT

There are provided systems and methods for a physical stand for multiple device orientations and peripheral card reader. A device stand may include a dock that allows for placement and securing of a computing device within the device case, such as through a locking or connecting mechanism. The device dock further includes a peripheral component, such as a physical card reader, that allows for reading and entry of card data into the computing device for use with an electronic transaction processing application on the computing device. This allows the computing device to process transactions electronic with an online service provider. Further, the device stand includes a hinge or joint that allows for rotating and inverting of the computing device over a curved extension from a base of the device stand, which allows the computing device to be viewed in multiple directions and orientations.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present application generally relates to physical device stands usedfor electronic transaction processing through mobile computing devicesand more particularly to providing a physical tablet stand that includesa peripheral card reader device and allows for tablet inversion to viewthe tablet interface from multiple perspectives and/or orientations.

BACKGROUND

Service providers may provide device applications that allow forelectronic transaction processing at physical merchant locations throughmobile devices of merchants. For example, a service provider may providea mobile application that allows for entry of items for a transaction,calculation of transaction totals (including tax, tip, and the like),and processing of the transaction with the service provider throughnetwork communications. However, when providing these services throughmobile devices, the merchant or other employee generally is required topass the mobile device to the other party to input transaction details,which creates friction in use of the devices. The devices may not besecured when transferred between parties and may be damaged or stolen.Further, any peripheral component added to the device to assist inprocessing transactions with the service provider is further not securedwith respect to the mobile device that may result in movement thatcauses disconnection and/or damage to the mobile device and theperipheral component.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a networked system suitable forimplementing the processes described herein, according to an embodiment;

FIGS. 2A-D are an exemplary apparatus for a device stand having aninvertible device case and a peripheral component contained within orprotruding from a side of the device case, according to embodiments;

FIG. 3 is an exemplary system showing a connection between a computingdevice and a peripheral component within a device case, according to anembodiment;

FIGS. 4A-B are different orientations of a computing device within adevice stand using a rotatable joint or hinge, according to embodiments;

FIG. 5 is an exemplary flowchart for connecting and utilizing acomputing device with a device stand, according to an embodiment; and

FIG. 6 is a block diagram of a computer system suitable for implementingone or more components in FIG. 1, according to an embodiment.

Embodiments of the present disclosure and their advantages are bestunderstood by referring to the detailed description that follows. Itshould be appreciated that like reference numerals are used to identifylike elements illustrated in one or more of the figures, whereinshowings therein are for purposes of illustrating embodiments of thepresent disclosure and not for purposes of limiting the same.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Provided are methods utilized for a physical stand for multiple deviceorientations and peripheral card reader. Systems suitable for practicingmethods of the present disclosure are also provided.

A manufacturer, wholesaler, retailer, or a service provider, such as anonline electronic transaction processor or other online entity requiringauthentication processes, may provide physical device stands tomerchants and other users for use in physical locations, such as amerchant storefront, retail location, and the like. The device standincludes a base that rests on or is secured to a surface with a curvedor arcuate extension from the base and away from the surface to a devicecase or docking portion. The device stand may allow for securing of acomputing device, such as a mobile tablet computer or a mobile smartphone, into the device case portion. Further, the device case allows forviewing of an interface, such as a graphical user interface (GUI), in aparticular direction or orientation of the device stand. For example, amerchant behind a counter may be able to view a tablet inserted into thedevice case in one direction, where the tablet may then be inverted overthe top of the extension via the hinge so that a customer on the otherside of the counter may then view the tablet when inverted. The devicecase also includes a peripheral component or device, such as a physicalpayment card reader, that connects to the computing device and allowsfor input of data to the computing device. In order to accept paymentcards, such as credit or debit cards, the device case may include anopening in the device case to insert the payment card to the peripheral,or the peripheral may extend and protrude from a side of the device caseto accept the payment card. Thus, the device stand secures a mobilecomputing device and conveniently allows use of the computing devicewith different users and in different orientations with a peripheraldevice.

For example, in order to provide the device stand in a physical mannerthat secures the computing device from damage and theft, the devicestand may include a base that rests on or is secured to a surface, suchas a merchant checkout location, point-of-sale, countertop, or the like.The base may form a bottom portion of the device stand and may include aflat portion, legs, or other base shape that allows for resting of thestand on a surface. In some embodiments, the base may include a securingmechanism or component, including screws, adhesive or glue-ableportions, latches, clasps, or the like that allows for anchoring and/orsecuring of the base to the surface on which the device stand is placed.From the base, the device stand extends in an opposite and perpendiculardirection (e.g., away from the base) in an extension. In someembodiments, the extension may correspond to a curved, arcuate, orC-shaped extension from the base, such as half or a portion of a circleor oval. This curved extension extends in such a manner that it isconnected to the base at one end and is further connected to a devicecase or docking component that accepts and secures a computing devicewithin a physical body.

Thus, the extension connects at the other end to the device case thatinclude a portion to accept a computing device, including a mobiletablet computer or a mobile smart phone. This may correspond to a dockor docking mechanism to secure the computing device. Thus, the portionfor the computing device may correspond to an opening and case thatsecures the computing device within the body of the device dock. Thismay also include a mechanism to secure the computing device so that thecomputing device does not fall out of the device case, such as when thedevice case is inverted over the curved extension, the device stand ismoved or contacted, or the device stand is otherwise manipulated. Forexample, the device case may include a snap fit mechanism, screws orother connectors, adhesive, magnetic portions, and/or other securingmechanism (e.g., via a sliding mechanism that opens and closes thedevice dock) that is configured to prevent the computing device frommoving within the device case and/or being removed without sufficientforce or manipulation by a user.

When the computing device is secured within the device case, the devicecase may allow for rotating, inverting, or otherwise adjusting anorientation of the computing device so that other users may view aninterface (e.g., a screen or display) of the computing device indifferent directions or perspectives. For example, the device case mayconnect with the curved extension using a hinge or joint at some placeon the body of the device case. The hinge allows for the device case tobe rotated over the top of the curved connector. The hinge may besimilar to a door hinge, or may correspond to a joint, such as a balland socket joint, pivot joints, or other connectors that allow movementsin two or three dimensions. The device case's hinge or joint may also becapable of being disconnected from the curved extension so that thedevice case may be removed from the device stand. In this regard, thehinge may include a magnetic or physical detachable connector thatallows for the device case to be detached from the curved extension.This may allow the merchant to remove the computing device while securedin the device case from the device stand and allows the merchant tobring the computing device with device case to different areas. Themerchant may then reconnect the device case to the extension using thedetachable component at a later point to connect the device case to thedevice stand for use.

In one direction, such as facing a merchant or a customer, the hinge mayconnect to the top of the curved extension and may cause the computingdevice's display to face in a direction away from the curvature.Further, a bumper or other stop may be placed so that the device casecomes to a rest at a certain orientation and does not allow movementpast a certain degree, such as in a full 360 degrees or more than 180degrees. When rotating the device case over the top of the curvature ofthe extension, the computing device display may the point in a differentdirection, such as a generally opposite direction of the first placementso that a second user (e.g., the merchant or consumer) standing acrossfrom the first user but facing the first user may also view thecomputing device's screen. When inverted, the device case and computingdevice may come to a rest on the back of the curved extension, such as aback of a C-shaped extension. Further, the tablet may be inverted to asufficient degree that any screen re-orientation, such as the inversion,may be detected (e.g., through an accelerometer within the computingdevice) and allow for reorienting the interface (e.g., so that theinterface does not appear upside-down to the second user).

The device case may also include a portion that contains one or moreperipheral components or devices that are connectable to the computingdevice. The peripheral may correspond to a physical payment card reader,such as a device that may read an EMV chip in a payment card or otherdata storage mechanism in or on a physical card, such as a credit,debit, gift, or other card. The peripheral therefore includes at least acard reading mechanism and a connector to the computing device. Theperipheral device may be contained within the portion of the device casethat has enough room for the card reader to connect to the computingdevice through the connector. In some embodiments, the connector and/orcomputing device may include hardware and/or software to allow power toflow from the computing device to the peripheral component and providepower to the peripheral component. However, in other embodiments, thedevice stand, device case, and/or portion of the device case having theperipheral card reader may include additional components, such as apower component and/or supply, which may power the card reader. Once thecard reader is connected to the computing device and powered, the cardreader may be activated to read card data from physical cards. The cardreader may be entirely contained in the portion of the device case suchthat the device case further includes an opening, such as a slit largeenough for entry of the physical card to read card data, in a side ofthe device case having the card reader. In other embodiments, the cardreader may protrude or extend from a side of the card case to allow forreading of card data from physical cards. The slit and/or protrusion mayfurther include a guiding mechanism for entry of physical cards to beread by the card reader.

The portion of the device case having the card reader may also includeother components to provide additional functionalities to the devicestand. For example, a power connector and/or power supply may be locatedin the portion of the device case. A direct wired physical powerconnector may connect to an external power supply, such as a wall powersocket, that may provide direct power to the card reader and/orcomputing device. A power supply self-contained in the portion of thedevice case may include a rechargeable battery pack or an inductionpower charger, which may provide power to the computing device and/orcard reader. This may allow for both charging of the computing device,as well as powering of the card reader to read card data as necessary.For example, a battery may provide wired power and may be removable,rechargeable, and/or replaceable to provide power. An inductive chargermay receive power from an external source (e.g., a wired power plug orother inductive charger) and provide the power either through wired orwireless means (e.g., induction via electromagnetic induction andmagnetic fields) to the computing device and/or card reader.Additionally, the portion may include a wireless or wired networkadapter, such as a WiFi network adapter that allows connection to alocal wireless network, a Bluetooth adapter, a Bluetooth Low Energyadapter or beacon, an NFC reader and/or antenna or the like. In thisregard, the network adapter may be configured to store networkcredentials, which may be automatically loaded to the computing deviceto allow for connection to a network. Additionally, when the networkadapter is disconnected, the credentials may be wiped or deleted fromthe computing device for additional security measures.

Further, once the card reader is connected to the computing device, thecard reader may be used to read card data and transfer the card data tothe computing device for processing. In some embodiments, the cardreader may activate a mobile application, such as an electronictransaction processing application associated with an online serviceprovider or transaction processor, that may allow for reading andprocessing of card data, as well as entry of transaction data. Afterremoving the computing device from the device stand and disconnectingfrom the card reader, the card reader may be powered off or entered to alow power state, and the application on the computing device may beautomatically closed or exited. The application may therefore be opened(automatically or by user input) on the computing device and a user,such as a merchant or customer, may input transaction data includingitems or service for purchase, amounts, other fees (e.g., tax or tip),and the like. Further, payment data, such as payment card details,payment card number, authorization, and/or processing gateway may beprovided to the application from a payment card via reading the datafrom a chip or other component of a physical payment card. The computingdevice may then use a network connection and communications with theonline service provider's platform to process a transaction with theonline service provider. Prior to processing transactions, the merchantor other user of the device stand may be required to establish a paymentaccount with the service provider.

Thus, the service provider may provide electronic transaction processingto entities, such as consumers and merchants that may wish to processtransactions and payments. In order to establish an account and/orutilize transaction processing services, these different users may berequired to establish account credentials, including a password, PIN, orother authentication credential that allows access to the account. Anaccount with a service provider may be established by providing accountdetails, such as a login, password (and/or other authenticationcredential, such as a biometric fingerprint, retinal scan, etc.), andother account creation details. The account creation details may includeidentification information to establish the account, such as personalinformation for a user, business or merchant information for anotherentity, or other types of identification information including a name,address, etc. The entity may also be required to provide financialinformation, including payment card (e.g., credit/debit card)information, bank account information, gift card information,benefits/incentives, and/or financial investments, which may be used toprocess transactions. The online payment provider may provide digitalwallet services, which may offer financial services to send, store, andreceive money, process financial instruments, and/or provide transactionhistories, including tokenization of digital wallet data for transactionprocessing. The application or website of the service provider, such asPayPal® or other online payment provider, may provide payments and theother transaction processing services.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a networked system 100 suitable forimplementing the processes described herein, according to an embodiment.System 100 includes a stand 110, a device case 120, and a computingdevice 130. Computing device 130 may be utilized by a user, merchant,business, or another entity to perform some action (e.g., electronictransaction processing). In this regard, stand 110 may facilitateconnecting of a card reader to computing device 130 for processing oftransactions with a service provider server. Computing device 130 mayinclude one or more processors, memories, and other appropriatecomponents for executing instructions such as program code and/or datastored on one or more computer readable mediums to implement the variousapplications, data, and steps described herein. For example, suchinstructions may be stored in one or more computer readable media suchas memories or data storage devices internal and/or external to variouscomponents of system 100, and/or accessible over a network.

Stand 110 in system 100 may correspond to a physical stand that allowsfor insertion and placement of computing device 110 into device case 120to secure computing device 130 and allows for use of computing device130 with a reader 124. In this regard, stand 110 may include multipledifferent shapes and configurations and include at least a curvedextension 112 from device case 120 to a base securing mechanism 114 fora base of stand 110. Curved extension 112 may correspond to a curved,arcuate, or C-shaped extension between base securing mechanism 114 anddevice case 120 so that base securing mechanism 114 and device case 120may be joined and in a relative position with each other. Curvedextension 112 may extend in a generally perpendicular direction awayfrom base securing mechanism 114 to allow for extension of device case120, and therefore computing device 130, away from a surface that basesecuring mechanism 114 is connected to. Curved extension 112 may be asingle solid extension or multiple different extensions joining devicecase 120 to base securing mechanism 114. Further, curved extension 112may be extendable or may be of sufficient length to cause device case120 to be at a particular height or level with respect to the surface(e.g., chest or eye level to a merchant when viewing computing device130 and stand 110 is placed on a surface or countertop). Base securingmechanism 114 may include one or more latches, fasteners, adhesives, orthe like, which may allow for resting and/or securing of stand 110 on asurface. However, in other embodiments, base securing mechanism 114 maycorrespond to a large enough area or base that stand 110 may balance ona surface even when computing device 130 is placed in device case 120.

Device case 120 may correspond to a component of stand 120 that includesa body portion and a device port or dock that allows for docking andsecuring of computing device 130 within the body of device case 120.Device case 120 can be a case or shell that may cover all or a portionof computing device 130, such as around an external side of computingdevice 130, and further includes an opening that allows for viewing of adisplay and interface of computing device 130. The opening furtherallows use of an input mechanism of computing device 130, such as atouch screen interface, to allow a user, such as a consumer or merchant,to input data and review displayed data. Device case 120 includes ahinge 122 that connects to curved extension 112 and allows for rotatingor inverting device case 120 over curved extension 112, base securingmechanism 114, and/or a base of stand 114. This allows computing device130 secured within device case 120 to be viewed in two or more opposite,perpendicular, or other directions, such as a first direction for amerchant to enter data and a second direction for a costumer to reviewand confirm transaction details. Hinge 112 may further be detachablethrough a mechanical or magnetic mechanism to allow for device case 120to be disconnected from curved extension 112.

Further, within a portion of device case 120 is a reader 124 that may beconnected to computing device 130 through a connector 126. Reader 124may correspond to a physical payment card reader that may read anddetermine card data stored on a mechanism of a physical card, such as anEMV card reader, NFC chip reader, or another chip or storage componentreader (e.g., magnetic stripe). Reader 124 may be included all withindevice case 120 and therefore device case 120 may have an opening toallow of insertion of the physical card to device case 120 for readingof the card by card reader 124. Reader 124 may also protrude from aportion of device case 120 so that reader 124 extends from a side and iscapable of reading physical cards. Connector 126 may serve to providepower to reader 124, such as from computing device 130 or an externalsource. Further, connector 126 may include one or more one or more wiredor data transmission tunnel components to exchange data between reader124 and/or computing device 130.

Connector 126 may then connect to computing device 130 via a port 132,such as a USB or micro-USB connection port, a Lightning port, a 3.5mminput jack, or another port that may allow for connection of reader 124to computing device 130. Port 132 may therefore exchange power and/ordata with connector 126 and therefore reader 124. Computing device 130may be implemented as a communication device that may utilizeappropriate hardware and software configured for wired and/or wirelesscommunication with reader 124 and a service provider server. Forexample, in one embodiment, computing device 130 may be implemented as apersonal computer (PC), a mobile smart phone, laptop/tablet computer,wristwatch with appropriate computer hardware resources, eyeglasses withappropriate computer hardware (e.g. GOOGLE GLASS ®), other type ofwearable computing device, and/or other types of computing devicescapable of transmitting and/or receiving data, such as an IPAD® fromAPPLE®. Although only one device is shown, a plurality of devices mayfunction similarly and/or be connected to provide the functionalitiesdescribed herein.

Computing device 130 may further include one or more applications, whichmay be used for processing data with the online service provider server.The applications may be used for electronically processing transactions,as well as performing other data processing operations. In someembodiments, transaction processing application 134 may include servicesfor electronic transaction processing provided by the service providerserver, which may be performed using an account for a merchant,transaction data input to computing device 130, and/or payment card datainput via reader 124. Transaction processing application 134 may be usedto establish the account, which may be done by providing user and/ordevice information, establishing an account identifier andauthentication credential, and/or registering financial information forthe account. Transaction processing application 134 may also be used toaccess the account and perform electronic transaction processing forpayments to or from the account using transaction data input tocomputing device 110. During transaction processing, transactionprocessing application 134 may be utilized to select one or moreaccounts and/or payment instruments for use in processing a transaction,transfer, or other financial process.

As discussed herein, transaction processing application 134 may receiveuser financial information, such as credit card data, bank account data,or other funding source data, from reader 124. Additionally, transactionprocessing application 134 may utilize a digital wallet associated withthe account with a payment provider or transaction processor, such asthe service provider server, as the payment instrument, for example,through accessing a digital wallet or account. Transaction processingapplication 134 may also be used to receive a receipt or otherinformation based on transaction processing. Further, transactionprocessing application 134 may be automatically opened and/or closedwhen connection to reader 124 is detected or ended, respectively, viaport 132 and connector 126. Computing device 130 may also include atleast one network interface component adapted to communicate with theservice provider server. In various embodiments, the network interfacecomponent may include a DSL (e.g., Digital Subscriber Line) modem, aPSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network) modem, an Ethernet device, abroadband device, a satellite device and/or various other types of wiredand/or wireless network communication devices including microwave, radiofrequency, infrared, Bluetooth, and near field communication devices.Further, transaction processing application 134 may receive one or morecredentials for reader 124 for the network via connector 126.

FIGS. 2A-D are an exemplary apparatus 200 for a device stand having aninvertible device case and a peripheral component contained within orprotruding from a side of the device case, according to embodiments.Apparatus 200 of FIGS. 2A-D includes a stand 110 as discussed inreference to system 100 of FIG. 1. Thus, apparatus 200 includes devicecase 120 that accepts and secures computing device 130 discussed inreference to system 110.

In this regard, apparatus 200 in FIG. 2A displays an embodiment of theshape and configuration of stand 110 having reader 124 with cardacceptor 128 protruding from a side of device case 120. In FIG. 2B, theembodiment of apparatus 200 is shown with a configuration where cardacceptor 128 is an opening or slit in the side of device case 120. InFIG. 2C, the embodiment of apparatus 200 is shown where card acceptor128 is accepting a physical payment card to be read by reader 124. InFIG. 2C, card acceptor 128 may include a guide, opening, and/orprotrusion from device 120 thereby allowing a user, such as a merchantor customer, to insert a physical payment card into reader 124 forreading of card data. FIG. 2D shows apparatus 200 having device case 120accepting a computing device 130 and a reader 124 that is a portion ofdevice case 120.

In FIGS. 2A-C, device case 120 is shown with reader 124 within a portionon a right side of device case 120, where reader 124 may be connected tocomputing device 130 through a mechanical mechanism, connector, and/orport when computing device 130 is inserted into device case 120. Thisportion of device case 120 may be a separated portion so that sufficientspace and area may be provided for reader 124, such as an EMV chipreader. In FIG. 2A, device case 120 is shown with a card acceptor 128that may correspond to an opening, extension, and/or protrusion fromdevice case 120. Card acceptor 128 may include a guide for inserting aphysical card, such as a payment card, into device case 120 so thatreader 124 may read card data from the card. Thus, in FIG. 2A, cardacceptor 128 forms a protrusion from the side of device case 120, whichmay include the guide and/or all or a portion of reader 124. This allowsfor insertion of a card by a user so that reader 124 may read card dataand transmit the card data to computing device 130. Card acceptor 128may therefore be shaped with an opening the same or about the same sizeas a standard credit or debit card to allow for insertion and guiding ofthe card into reader 124 through the protrusion of card acceptor 128. InFIG. 2A, reader 124 may extend from a side of device case 120 havingcard acceptor 128 to provide for additional room or extension toproperly house and utilize reader 124 with card acceptor 128 andcomputing device 130 in device case 120. In FIG. 2B, reader 124 may beentirely contained within device case 120, such as the right portion ofdevice case 120 so that reader 124 and card acceptor 128 no longerprotrude from a side of device case 120. Therefore, in FIG. 2B, anopening, slit, or other aperture is formed in the side of device case120 to allow for insertion of a card into device case 120. This cardacceptor 128 in FIG. 2B may be the same or about the same size (e.g., asmall amount larger) than a standard credit or debit card to allow forinsertion and guiding of the card into reader 128. In FIG. 2C, cardacceptor 128 is shown as accepting a payment card 140 into the side ofdevice case 120 having reader 124. Thus, in FIG. 2C, payment card 140 isinserted into reader 124 through card acceptor 128 in such a manner soas to allow reading of card data from payment card 140 by reader 124 andtransmission of the card data to computing device 130.

In FIG. 2D, stand 110 is shown with an exemplary computing device 130,such as a tablet computer, inserted into a body of device case 120 sothat computing device 130 may be viewed in a particular direction. Thismay be accomplished by a user generally placing and securing computingdevice 130 within a body of device case 120. When inserting computingdevice 130 into device case 120 of stand 110, different insertion andsecuring mechanism may be utilized. For example, a snap fit design maybe utilized where portions of device case 120 may be flexible orsemi-flexible to allow for securing of computing device 130 within abody of device case 120. In such embodiments, device case 120 mayinclude a lip securing mechanism that may snap over and fit computingdevice 130 within the body of device case 120, similar to a mobiledevice cover and/or case protector. However, other mechanism may also beused in combination or separately from a snap fit design, such as screwsthat allow for screwing a panel or portion over computing device 130, aslide lock that may slide a panel or portion over computing device 130,one or more magnets within device case 120, and/or one or more screwsthat may be compatible with computing device 130.

Reader 124 may be manufactured to be a portion of device case 120 andtherefore contained within the portion of device case 120 so that it isnot removable. However, as shown in FIG. 2D, the portion containingreader 124 may be opened and/or removed so that reader 124 is detachablefrom device case 124. In such embodiments, reader 124 may be connectedto device case 120 through one or more mechanisms, such as a latch,clasp, screw, snap fit, or other securing and fastening mechanisms thatallow for reader to be connected to computing device 130 through devicecase 120. Moreover, stand 110 is shown having a base securing mechanism114 that corresponds to a base portion that may rest on a surface, suchas a merchant countertop, table, or the like. Base securing mechanism114 therefore allows balancing of stand 110 on the surface and use ofcomputing device 130 within device case 120 when stand 110 is placed onthe surface.

As shown in apparatus 200 of FIGS. 2A-D, curved extension 112 extendsaway from base securing mechanism 114 and is shown as curved, extendingfrom one side of a base of stand 110 and curving upwards in a C-shape orcurved/arcuate direction. This allows for curved extension 112 toconnect to a back portion of device case 120, such as a center of a backpanel of device case 120. The connection may be facilitated by a hingeor joint, such as hinge 122 in system 100. Hinge 122 may therefore beconnected in between curved extension 112 and device case 120. Thisallows for inversion or rotating of device case 120 over curvedextension 112 so that in one direction, device case 120 may direct adisplay interface of computing device 130 away from the C-shape orcurve. However, when inverted, device case 120 may come to a rest on aback of the C-shape or curve and may allow another user to viewcomputing device 130 in an opposite direction.

FIG. 3 is an exemplary system 300 showing a connection between acomputing device and a peripheral component within a device case,according to an embodiment. In this regard, system 300 shows computingdevice 130 within device case 120, as discussed in reference to system100 of FIG. 1. Computing device 130 therefore executes one or moreapplications and operations associated with the components of devicecase 120.

In system 300, an internal portion of device case 120 is shown for stand110 in system 100. Device case 120 is shown with a portion that containsthe peripherals and components that are connectable to computing device130. Also while various components and peripherals are shown in system300, it is understood, that more, less, or different components may alsobe contained in one or more portions of device case 120. In this regard,device case 120 is shown with computing device 130 inserted into devicecase 120 so that computing device 130 is secured within a body orstructure of device case 120. Device case 120 may further include a snapfit, magnetic lock, screw, or adhesive that may allow for the securingof computing device 130 so that computing device 130 does not movewithin and/or fall out from device case 120.

After insertion of computing device 130 into device case 120, port 132of computing device 130 may be connected to connector 126. This mayoccur when computing device 130 is secured within device case 120 and/orthrough a connecting mechanism, such as a slide fit or cover and causesconnector 126 to be inserted to ports 132. Port 132 may connect toconnector 126 via a plug 127, such as a micro-USB, Lightning, or otherconnector for plug 127. Connector 126 and plug 127 may include one ormore wired connectors and/or wired tunnels to allow for power and/ordata to be exchanged between computing device 130 and reader 124. Inthis regard, connector 126 and plug 127 may be utilized with anapplication or operation of computing device 130 that allows for powerto flow in an opposite direction out of computing device 130 (e.g., fromcomputing device 130) and therefore provide power to reader 124.Additionally, connector 126 and plug 127 include data transmissioncomponents to exchange data between reader 124 and computing device 130,such as a signal that computing device is ready to read card data from aphysical card or is not ready, a status of reader 124 and/or computingdevice 130, and/or payment card data read from a card chip or component.In other embodiments, connector 126 may correspond to a wirelessconnector, including Bluetooth, RFID, radio wave, and the like, whichmay exchange data between reader 124 and computing device 130. Thus,plug 127 may be unnecessary where a wireless connection is used for datatransfer. When reading card data, device case 120 is further shown withcard acceptor 128 that may serve to allow an opening or protrusion toinsert a card to reader 124, which may be contained in a side of a bodyof device case 120 or extend from that side.

Further, device case 120 is shown with other optional components,including a power source 1000 and a network interface component 1004.Power source 1000 corresponds to a wired or wireless power component orsupply, such as a connection to an external power supply (e.g., battery,generator, 120V/240V wall plug, inductive charger, or the like) or aninternal power supply (e.g., a rechargeable or replaceable battery,induction power coils and wireless power charger, or the like). Powersource 1000 may provide power directly to computing device 130 forcharging of computing device 130. In further embodiments, power source1000 provides power to connectors 126, via power connector 1002, whichmay provide power to one or more of reader 124 and/or computing device130. For example, power connector 1002 may be used to provide power tooperate reader 124 and/or charge computing device 130. Thus, powerconnector 1002 and/or connector 126 may include a power splitter tosplit power between different component of device case 120, including anetwork interface component 1004.

Network interface component 1004 may correspond to a module to connectto an external network, such as a DSL (e.g., Digital Subscriber Line)modem, a PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network) modem, an Ethernetdevice, a broadband device, a satellite device and/or various othertypes of wired and/or wireless network communication devices includingWiFi, microwave, radio frequency, infrared, Bluetooth, and near fieldcommunication devices. Network interface component 1004 may connect tocomputing device 130 to provide network capabilities via a networkconnector 1006, which may correspond to a wired or wireless connector.Further, network interface component 1004 may additionally providenetwork access credentials, such as a WiFi username/password, whencomputing device 130 is inserted into device case 120 and/or connector126.

FIGS. 4A-B are different orientations of a computing device within adevice stand using a rotatable joint or hinge, according to embodiments.For example, in an environment 400 a, a first orientation of stand 110,as discussed in system 100 of FIG. 1, is shown with device case 120facing a first direction in the first orientation to allow for a firstuser (e.g., a merchant or customer) to view a computing device in devicecase 120 from a first left-side perspective of environment 400 a. In anenvironment 400 b, a second orientation of stand 110 is shown withdevice case 120 facing a second direction in the second orientation toallow for a second user to view the computing device in device case 120from a second right-side perspective of environment 400 b.

In environment 400 a of FIG. 4A, stand 110 is shown with base securingmechanism 114 on a surface with curved extension 112 extending up tomeet device case 120 at a hinge 122. When hinge 122 is in a firstplacement and configuration, device case 120 is facing in the firstorientation and direction. Thus, an opening and/or computing device(e.g., computing device 130) may be visible to the first user that maybe standing on the left-side of environment 400 a. This may allow amerchant to begin entry of transaction details, such as items, services,costs, and/or fees into a transaction processing application. Further abumper 1100 is shown under hinge 122 so that device case 120 may come toa rest in a first position. Bumper 1100 may be optional depending on theconfiguration and mechanism of hinge 122 so as to allow resting ofdevice case 120 against bumper 1100 when turned or rotated to the firstorientation. This may be utilized to prevent device case 120 fromrotating too far around hinge 122, thereby facing towards the base ofstand 110. Moreover, the bumper may be utilized to prevent additionalstress and/or damage to hinge 122. Bumper 1100 may therefore correspondto some physical or mechanical mechanism to cause the first orientationof environment 400 a. However, in other embodiments, bumper 1100 maycorrespond to other securing mechanisms or may be unnecessary. Forexample, hinge 122 may cause device case 120 to rest in the firstposition and orientation, or another portion of device case 120 mayotherwise be provided to allow for stopping and resting of device in thefirst position without causing damage to hinge 122.

In environment 400 b of FIG. 4B, stand 110 is also shown with basesecuring mechanism 114 on a surface with curved extension 112 extendingup to meet device case 120 at a hinge 122. However, in contrast toenvironment 400 a, stand 110 in environment 400 b display the secondorientation of device case 120 when device case 120 is rotated andinverted over curved extension 112 and base securing mechanism 114 usinghinge 112. Instead, device case 120 comes to a rest in an oppositesecond direction where a second user may view device case 120 (and thecorresponding inserted computing device) from the second right-sideperspective in environment 400 b. This allows another user to view andinteract with device case 120 and the computing device. Further, inorder to utilize the computing device, device case 120 comes to a reston back rest 1102, which corresponds to a back portion of curvedextension 112. For example, back rest 1102 may correspond to a back of aC-shape of curved extension 112 to allow for resting of device case 120and use of the computing device contained within device case 120. Thus,hinge allows for free motion in at least two dimensions, and may furtherinclude further joints to move freely in three dimensions over a motionrange. Stand 110 may further include other orientations and positions ofdevice case 120.

FIG. 5 is an exemplary flowchart 500 for connecting and utilizing acomputing device with a device stand, according to an embodiment. Notethat one or more steps, processes, and methods described herein offlowchart 500 may be omitted, performed in a different sequence, orcombined as desired or appropriate.

At step 502 of flowchart 500, a connection by a computing device to acard reader is detected, such as a mobile tablet device or a mobilesmart phone when placed within a stand having a device case or dock thatallows for securing of the computing device within a body of the case.The connection may correspond to a physical wired connection, such asthrough micro-USB or Lightning ports, or may be a wireless connection.The connection may be facilitated when the computing device is acceptedto the device case and may allow for data exchange, as well as power tobe provided to the card reader. In response to the connection occurringbetween the computing device and the card reader, at step 504, power isprovided to the card reader. The power may be provided directly from thecomputing device to the card reader or may come from an external powersupply to the card reader. Where the power is provided by the computingdevice, a process on the computing device may facilitate reversing apower flow direction so that power may flow from the computing device tothe card reader.

An optional step 505 may further occur after power is provided to thecard reader, for example, where the powering of the card reader causes amobile application on the computing device to activate. This may includeexecuting and opening or bringing to a forefront of an operating systemon the computing device. By opening the application, additionaloperations may be performed to facilitate data exchanges between thecomputing device and the card reader, such as to read card data fromphysical payment cards. At step 506, the card reader is activated withinthe device case and stand. Activating the card reader may includeperforming operations that allow for the card reader to communicate withthe computing device, read card chips or other components, andcommunicate data to the computing device. In some embodiments, thecomputing device may also activate a light or signal on the card readerthat displays a card reader status, such as a light indicating the cardreader is active and capable of reading card.

At step 508, card data is read, via the card reader. This may occur whena card is placed through an opening or aperture in a side of the devicecase where the card reader is located or inserted into the card readerif the card reader extends from a protrusion of the device case. Thecard data may be read using an EMV chip reader or other physical cardreader, including NFC or RFID readers, magnetic stripe readers, and thelike. The card reader may also include configurations to comply withcard reading standards, such as EMV chips and chip readers. Thereafter,the card data is transmitted to the computing device and, at step 510, atransaction is electronically processed using the card data. In someembodiments, processing the card data may require the card reader toprovide additional information, such as security keys or otherencryption information necessary for the card reader standard, to thecomputing device. Moreover, after the computing device is removed fromthe device case, the card reader may be deactivated and entered into ano or low power mode.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram of a computer system suitable for implementingone or more components in FIG. 1, according to an embodiment. In variousembodiments, the communication device may comprise a personal computingdevice e.g., smart phone, a computing tablet, a personal computer,laptop, a wearable computing device such as glasses or a watch,Bluetooth device, key FOB, badge, etc.) capable of communicating withthe network. The service provider may utilize a network computing device(e.g., a network server) capable of communicating with the network. Itshould be appreciated that each of the devices utilized by users andservice providers may be implemented as computer system 600 in a manneras follows.

Computer system 600 includes a bus 602 or other communication mechanismfor communicating information data, signals, and information betweenvarious components of computer system 600. Components include aninput/output (I/O) component 604 that processes a user action, such asselecting keys from a keypad/keyboard, selecting one or more buttons,image, or links, and/or moving one or more images, etc., and sends acorresponding signal to bus 602. I/O component 604 may also include anoutput component, such as a display 611 and a cursor control 613 (suchas a keyboard, keypad, mouse, etc.). An optional audio input/outputcomponent 605 may also be included to allow a user to use voice forinputting information by converting audio signals. Audio I/O component605 may allow the user to hear audio. A transceiver or network interface606 transmits and receives signals between computer system 600 and otherdevices, such as another communication device, service device, or aservice provider server via network 150. In one embodiment, thetransmission is wireless, although other transmission mediums andmethods may also be suitable. One or more processors 612, which can be amicro-controller, digital signal processor (DSP), or other processingcomponent, processes these various signals, such as for display oncomputer system 600 or transmission to other devices via a communicationlink 618. Processor(s) 612 may also control transmission of information,such as cookies or IP addresses, to other devices.

Components of computer system 600 also include a system memory component614 (e.g., RAM), a static storage component 616 (e.g., ROM), and/or adisk drive 617. Computer system 600 performs specific operations byprocessor(s) 612 and other components by executing one or more sequencesof instructions contained in system memory component 614. Logic may beencoded in a computer readable medium, which may refer to any mediumthat participates in providing instructions to processor(s) 612 forexecution. Such a medium may take many forms, including but not limitedto, non-volatile media, volatile media, and transmission media. Invarious embodiments, non-volatile media includes optical or magneticdisks, volatile media includes dynamic memory, such as system memorycomponent 614, and transmission media includes coaxial cables, copperwire, and fiber optics, including wires that comprise bus 602. In oneembodiment, the logic is encoded in non-transitory computer readablemedium. In one example, transmission media may take the form of acousticor light waves, such as those generated during radio wave, optical, andinfrared data communications.

Some common forms of computer readable media includes, for example,floppy disk, flexible disk, hard disk, magnetic tape, any other magneticmedium, CD-ROM, any other optical medium, punch cards, paper tape, anyother physical medium with patterns of holes, RAM, PROM, EEPROM,FLASH-EEPROM, any other memory chip or cartridge, or any other mediumfrom which a computer is adapted to read.

In various embodiments of the present disclosure, execution ofinstruction sequences to practice the present disclosure may beperformed by computer system 600. In various other embodiments of thepresent disclosure, a plurality of computer systems 600 coupled bycommunication link 618 to the network (e.g., such as a LAN, WLAN, PTSN,and/or various other wired or wireless networks, includingtelecommunications, mobile, and cellular phone networks) may performinstruction sequences to practice the present disclosure in coordinationwith one another.

Where applicable, various embodiments provided by the present disclosuremay be implemented using hardware, software, or combinations of hardwareand software. Also, where applicable, the various hardware componentsand/or software components set forth herein may be combined intocomposite components comprising software, hardware, and/or both withoutdeparting from the spirit of the present disclosure. Where applicable,the various hardware components and/or software components set forthherein may be separated into sub-components comprising software,hardware, or both without departing from the scope of the presentdisclosure. In addition, where applicable, it is contemplated thatsoftware components may be implemented as hardware components andvice-versa.

Software, in accordance with the present disclosure, such as programcode and/or data, may be stored on one or more computer readablemediums. It is also contemplated that software identified herein may beimplemented using one or more general purpose or specific purposecomputers and/or computer systems, networked and/or otherwise. Whereapplicable, the ordering of various steps described herein may bechanged, combined into composite steps, and/or separated into sub-stepsto provide features described herein.

The foregoing disclosure is not intended to limit the present disclosureto the precise forms or particular fields of use disclosed. As such, itis contemplated that various alternate embodiments and/or modificationsto the present disclosure, whether explicitly described or impliedherein, are possible in light of the disclosure. Having thus describedembodiments of the present disclosure, persons of ordinary skill in theart will recognize that changes may be made in form and detail withoutdeparting from the scope of the present disclosure. Thus, the presentdisclosure is limited only by the claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A device stand comprising: a base comprising anextension in a direction perpendicular from the base; a device dockingcase connected to the base via the extension, the device docking caseconfigured to accept a mobile computing device, and the device dockingcase comprising an opening for insertion of a payment card or an openingfor a protrusion of a portion of a payment card reader component fromthe device docking case; a rotatable joint connecting the extension andthe device docking case, the rotatable joint configured to enable thedevice docking case to rotate over the extension; and the payment cardreader component at least partially within the device docking case, thepayment card reader component configured to accept a payment card forreading of data stored on the payment card, the payment card readercomponent comprising one or more hardware processors configured toexecute instructions to cause the payment card reader component toperform operations comprising: detecting a physical connection of thepayment card reader component to the mobile computing device, whereinthe physical connection causes power to be provided to the payment cardreader component from the mobile computing device; connecting to themobile computing device for data communications via the physicalconnection; and activating the payment card reader component for readingthe payment card.
 2. The device stand of claim 1, wherein the paymentcard reader component comprises an EMV chip reader, a device interface,and a connector between the EMV chip reader and the device interface,wherein the detecting the physical connection comprises receiving thepower to the EMV chip reader via the connector.
 3. The device stand ofclaim 2, wherein the device interface comprises at least one of amicro-USB adapter interface or a Lightning adapter interface.
 4. Thedevice stand of claim 2, wherein the connector further comprises a powerconnector component within the payment card reader component, andwherein the device interface provides the power from the mobilecomputing device to the EMV chip reader via the power connectorcomponent.
 5. The device stand of claim 2, wherein the payment cardreader component comprises a power circuit splitter that receives thepower from one of an external power supply or an internal power supplyof the device stand, and wherein the power circuit splitter provides thepower to the EMV chip reader and the mobile computing device forcharging the mobile computing device.
 6. The device stand of claim 1,wherein the base further comprises a curved portion or an arcuateportion connecting the extension to a bottom of the base, and whereinthe bottom of the base is configured to be placed on or secured to asurface.
 7. The device stand of claim 6, wherein the rotatable joint isfurther configured to enable the device docking case to rotate and restfacing a first direction away from the extension, and wherein therotatable joint is further configured to enable the device docking caseto rotate and rest against a back curvature of curved portion facing asecond direction.
 8. The device stand of claim 1, wherein one of thedevice docking case or the rotatable joint comprises one of a magneticrelease or a mechanical release configured to enable the device dockingcase to be removed from or connected to the curved portion.
 9. Thedevice stand of claim 1, wherein the device docking case comprises oneof a snap fit securing mechanism, a slide lock, or at least one screwconfigured to secure the mobile computing device inside or against thedevice docking case.
 10. The device stand of claim 1, furthercomprising: a power supply configured to provide the power from anexternal power source, the power supply comprising one of a wired powersupply or an inductive power supply.
 11. The device stand of claim 10,wherein the power supply is further configured to enable charging themobile computing device or providing the power to the payment cardreader component.
 12. The device stand of claim 1, wherein theoperations further comprise: reading, by the payment card readercomponent, data stored on the payment card; and communicating the datato the mobile computing device for transaction processing.
 13. Thedevice stand of claim 1, wherein the operations further comprise: inresponse to activating the payment card reader component, causing anapplication on the mobile computing device to open, wherein theapplication is associated with reading the payment card by the paymentcard reader component.
 14. A computing device docking system comprising:a first structure comprising a curved component and configured toprovide a surface attachment at a first end and a rotatable hingeconnector at a second end; and a second structure configured toencapsulate at least a portion of a computing device and secure thecomputing device within the second structure, wherein the secondstructure attaches to the rotatable hinge connector and comprises aphysical card reader, wherein the second structure comprises thephysical card reader in one of a body of the second structure with aphysical card acceptance slot in a side of the body or a protrusion fromthe side of the body, and wherein the physical card reader comprises oneor more hardware processors configured to execute instructions to causethe physical card reader to perform operations comprising: establishinga data connection to the computing device when the computing device issecured within the second structure and connected to the physical cardreader; reading data from a card chip of a physical card; and processingthe data with the computing device.
 15. The computing device dockingsystem of claim 14, wherein the curved component comprises a shapecorresponding to one of a C letter, a portion of an oval, an arc, or aportion of a circle, and wherein the rotatable hinge connector enablesthe second structure to be inverted over the first structure and enablesviewing of the computing device in opposite directions.
 16. Thecomputing device docking system of claim 14, wherein the establishingthe data connection occurs via a micro-USB adapter or a Lightningadapter.
 17. The computing device docking system of claim 14, whereinthe second structure further comprises a power connector between thecomputing device and the physical card reader, and wherein the powerconnector enables a power to flow in a direction from the computingdevice to the physical card reader based on an operation executable bythe computing device.
 18. The computing device docking system of claim14, wherein the data connection comprises a wireless data connectionusing one of Bluetooth, Bluetooth Low Energy, or near fieldcommunications.
 19. A method comprising: detecting, by a physical cardreader component, a placement of a tablet computing device within atablet case of a curved tablet stand, wherein the physical card readercomponent is attached to at least a portion of the tablet case;activating a chip reader of the physical card reader component;receiving card data from a physical card via the chip reader; andprocessing the card data with the tablet computing device.
 20. Themethod of claim 19, wherein the detecting comprises receiving power bythe physical card reader component from the tablet computing device, andwherein prior to the receiving the card data, the method furthercomprises: activating a transaction processing application on the tabletcomputing device, wherein the processing the card data comprisestransmitting the card data to the transaction processing application.